While Gail Borden Public Library in Elgin and its two branches are closed to the public through March 29, they're switching to some online programming to keep patrons engaged and to educate them about the books, movies and other things that can be accessed through their website. (Rafael Guerrero / The Courier-News)

Just like they do every week, Katie Clausen and Grisel Leon read to children Monday as part of story time at the Gail Borden Public Library in Elgin.

This most recent Monday, however, there was no child in sight.

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“'Oh my gosh, this book is ridiculous. Can I stop reading this book? No?'" Clausen asked the empty room, reading the actual words from B.J. Novak’s “The Book With No Pictures.” She continued on.

Despite appearances, Clausen and Leon actually did have audience. They were watching online via Facebook from their homes or elsewhere using computers or phones.

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Gail Borden Public Library, like many governments, businesses and agencies, is shut down to the public through March 29 in an effort to curb the spread of the coronavirus. But instead of just closing up shop, library staff is switching to remote services they hope will help patrons work, study, learn and be entertained while staying at home for the next few of weeks.

“We’re happy to do this, we hope you’ll tune in. We have plans to serve you," library spokeswoman Denise Raleigh told viewers Monday when introducing the new programming. "We’ll keep you up-to-date about how the library will do service during this unprecedented time.”

Raleigh unveiled the library’s plan to provide some live online programming for the remainder of the week and beyond. At 11 a.m., staff will read to children in English and Spanish. At 2 p.m., the programming shifts to adult-centric topics.

There is definitely an audience. Monday story time broadcast was viewed more than 4,100 times within three hours of it being done live, said Raleigh, noting that the number may prompt them to add a second story time slot.

Monday’s program for adults featured Information Services Director Melissa Bernasek discussing ways for adults to communicate and interact in groups without meeting in person. Tuesday’s scheduled topic was on the Hoopla digital library app that Gail Borden users can access from their personal devices.

“We do still need community during this time. It is important to us to stay in touch with each other,” Bernasek told viewers via video Monday. “We don’t quite know how this will affect us long term, but staying in touch is important.”

Gail Borden staff also used the online programming to remind patrons of the online and digital services it has available, most of which can be accessed through its website. Among the things available are e-books, audiobooks, music, movies, TV shows and materials/resources for children.

If necessary, people can access the library’s Wi-Fi connection from the parking lots of the main Elgin library at 270 N. Grove Ave. or its branches at 2751 W. Bowes Road in Elgin and and 127 S McLean Blvd. in South Elgin.

Patrons can also text or email librarians for reference and informational assistance.